Greipel "The Gorilla" takes the first stage in the World Ports Classic

28/05/2014

André Greipel sprinted to victory in the first stage of the World Ports Classic, a race of 195 kilometers between Rotterdam and Antwerp. Lotto Belisol took control of the race on the way to the bunch sprint. The leadout train was working perfectly, and the German champion finished the job before Porsev and Bos. Greipel also took the GC and points classification.

André Greipel sprinted to victory in the first stage of the World Ports Classic, a race of 195 kilometers between Rotterdam and Antwerp. Lotto Belisol took control of the race on the way to the bunch sprint. The leadout train was working perfectly, and the German champion finished the job before Porsev and Bos. Greipel also took the GC and points classification.

In the second stage, it did not went so well for Lotto-Belisol. In a chaotic final, Greipel was pushed to the side and was just able to avoid a car. He was lucky to not have crashed, but his chances for victory were gone. Greg Henderson took up the job as sprinter for Lotto-Belisol, and finished on a third place.

Herman Frison, sports director: "Yesterday all went according to plan and we took the victory. Today the same scenario seemed to unfold. We were heading for a bunch sprint, but with 800 meters to go André Greipel was impeded and he could just avoid crashing. Otherwise he could have won the stage and GC. It's a pity that this opportunity was taken away from him, but it's more important that André did not crash. The guys did a perfect lead-out yesterday, so we can make a positive balance and go to the Tour of Belgium with a good feeling. That race starts on Wednesday."